In the backs the well performed, Tevita Li, is back on the left wing reuniting with Ben Smith and Waisake Naholo.

Kayne Hammington rotates in for Josh Renton at halfback reserve.

These Southern derby games have produced some classic matches in recent times with both games in the 2017 season decided in the last minute of the game; unfortunately for the Highlanders, in the Crusaders favour.

Thomas Umaga-Jensen (shoulder), James Lentjes (shoulder), Richard Buckman (neck), Dan Pryor (hamstring) were all unavailable for selection this weekend due to injury.